Introducing Glorimar Díaz González: World Spine Care Clinic Supervisor in Moca, Dominican Republic
Dr. Glorimar Díaz González has been serving as the Clinic Supervisor and Clinic Coordinator for World Spine Care at the Moca Clinic in the Dominican Republic for almost 2 years. With a dedication to healthcare and a spirit of service, Glorimar brings a unique perspective and passion to her role, striving to make a difference in the local community. In this interview, she shares her inspiration for joining World Spine Care, the challenges of providing care in rural areas, and what she hopes to accomplish before returning home to Puerto Rico.
WSC: Tell us about your background, education, and clinical experience.
Glorimar: I began my educational journey in Puerto Rico, earning a bachelor's degree in human biology, a pre-med path. From there, I pursued chiropractic studies, driven by a desire to delve deeper into the field of healthcare. Volunteering has been integral to my career, providing experiences in Peru, Colombia, and now the Dominican Republic. These experiences have shaped my approach to healthcare, emphasizing compassion, adaptability, and patient-centered care.
How did you first hear about World Spine Care?
My introduction to World Spine Care was coincidental yet impactful. During my studies, I encountered the organization and was immediately drawn to its mission. Although initially unable to join due to licensing requirements, I reached out again post-graduation, and the opportunity opened up for me to serve in Moca.
What inspired you to take on the role of Clinic Supervisor at the WSC Moca Clinic in the Dominican Republic?
I was drawn to the clinic’s mission and the genuine need for specialized spine care in the region. The chance to contribute to a community with limited access to such care resonated with my professional goals and personal values, particularly after seeing firsthand the impact that chiropractic care can have in underserved areas.
What excites you most about this role?
The most exciting aspect is the opportunity to educate and empower the local population. There is a lack of understanding about chiropractic care here, and bridging that knowledge gap can lead to long-term improvements in the community’s health.
What did you hope to learn?
I hope to gain insights into the cultural dynamics of healthcare delivery in the Dominican Republic while honing my clinical skills through direct patient care and interprofessional collaboration. These lessons will be invaluable as I plan to apply them in future endeavors back in Puerto Rico.
What do you hope to achieve while in the Dominican Republic?
I aim to solidify the clinic’s presence and credibility in Moca, ensuring that it becomes a trusted hub for spine care. By fostering strong relationships with patients and local healthcare providers, I hope to enhance the clinic’s ability to serve the community effectively.
What has been your initial experience with patients and fellow healthcare providers?
Working here has been enriching. The interprofessional relationships, particularly with physiotherapists, have been a highlight. Our collaborative efforts have significantly enhanced patient care, allowing us to address a wide range of spinal and neurological issues comprehensively.
What is something exciting or surprising you’ve learned since arriving?
Something that has truly surprised and inspired me is how quickly patients understand and adopt spinal health concepts when these are presented in an accessible and culturally relevant way. Education has proven to be a powerful tool, not just for individual empowerment but also for building community trust. As patients gain knowledge about their own health, they’re also becoming advocates, sharing what they’ve learned and referring others to the clinic through word of mouth. This has significantly expanded our reach, with individuals from rural areas traveling to seek care. It’s a testament to how education can create a positive effect, extending the impact of our work far beyond the clinic walls.
Have there been any memorable moments or lessons so far?
One unforgettable moment that stands out for me was when a patient broke down in tears on the treatment table. She had been living with chronic pain for so long that she could hardly believe the relief she felt after just one adjustment. Moments like these are humbling. They remind me how significant a “small intervention” can be in someone’s life, especially in communities with limited access to care.
What drives you personally and professionally each day?
My drive comes from a combination of professional passion and personal gratitude. Recognizing the healthcare disparity fuels my commitment to provide quality care. Additionally, the personal fulfillment from seeing firsthand the positive impacts of effective healthcare is immensely rewarding.
Any advice for someone interested in getting involved with World Spine Care?
My advice is to come with an open heart and mind. Be prepared for challenges but also for profound personal and professional growth. The experiences here are unique and transformative, offering a broader perspective on the global impact of healthcare.
Glorimar's journey with World Spine Care exemplifies dedication and the transformative power of volunteerism. Through her leadership at World Spine Care’s Moca Clinic, she is making a significant impact, helping to bring essential spine care to those who need it most in the Dominican Republic.
For anyone inspired to make a difference, World Spine Care offers impactful volunteer opportunities globally. If you are a Spanish-speaking chiropractor interested in running a World Spine Care clinic, learn more about the Clinic Supervisor role and get in touch with our Volunteer team.
